PNP-Region 3 to implement Oplan Balik Eskwela

May 27, 2010 10:51 am

CAMP OLIVAS, Pampanga, May 27 — Some 5,000 police personnel will be deployed in various schools in Central Luzon as part of its implementation of “Oplan Balik Eskwela.”

PRO 3 Public Information Officer (PIO) Supt. Baltazar Mamaril Jr. said the regional police force would be mobilized in school areas to avert any crime that may arise as the school year starts on June 15.

"Police personnel will be deployed in different schools in the region, both uniformed and plainclothes, as a way to prevent criminal elements from perpetrating acts that will endanger the students and their parents,” Mamaril said.

He said there are common problems that happen every year when classes start, including snatching and doing extortion against students.

To avoid such situation, Mamaril advised the students not to bring valuable things like fancy gadgets and jewelries when going to school.

“Because it is very eye catchy to the snatchers,” he said.

He also reminded the students to avoid as much as possible in going to crowded places like market or walking in the dark alleys or corridors if they are bringing valuable things.

Mamaril said the Oplan Balik Eskwela will be implemented in coordination with the Department of Education and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) who have requested assistance for safety and security of thousands of students.

He said the police force will start monitoring school areas before and after the weeks leading to the opening of classes.

This is to ensure security and safety of students and teachers in and out of schools and also assist in maintaining traffic in areas where students flock and assemble, he added.

Mamaril said the public should not hesitate to report to police officers on duty any suspicious activity or elements around the vicinity of schools or to call police hotlines in the region.

“We are ready to provide police visibility, security and assistance in the upcoming opening of classes next month,” he added. (PNA)